Gate valve - open

Equal to running

another 1.38 feet

of pipe

Ball valve - open

Equal to running

another 8.60 feet

of pipe

Equal to running

another 2.76 feet

of pipe

Equal to running

another 2.76 feet

of pipe

(values are based off using 2 inch pipe and fittings)

Equal to running

another 5.17 feet

of pipe

ABS is also an option but should never be used where there is pressure, like from the pump to a filter. The material will split. It can be used inside a pond if it is below the freeze level of the pond, about 6 inches below the surface or deeper. It will blend in with the black of the liner if used to modify locations of drains or in-pond pumps.add overall are shown at the bottom of this page.

Use the largest diameter pipe you reasonably can, to increase flow and reduce head pressure. For example, a 3" pipe carries 2.8 times as much water as a 2" pipe.

There are two basic types of pipe, rigid PVC and flexible PVC. There are advantages to each.

Schedule 40 PVC is the most common and least expensive, about $7.30 for a 10 foot length of 2 inch diameter pipe. Joints must be primered and glued. It is important to keep the number of bends in the pipes to a minimum. With ever turn you add resistance which will lead to reduced water flow. Common pipe joints and the resistance they add overall are shown at the bottom of this page. This smooth pvc pipe produces the least back pressure or head.

Flexible PVC allows you to twist and turn around obstacles with the least amount of resistance. It comes in clear, black and reinforced fiberglass weave. If you use clear or black and the water in it freezes it will split and empty your pond in minutes after it thaws. Fiberglass reinforced tubing will not do that. Reinforced PVC costs about $28.00 for a 10 foot length of 2 inch tubing.